What to Wear in Morocco as a Woman: A Practical Guide
If you’re wondering what to wear in Morocco as a woman, you’re not alone. Packing for Morocco can feel intimidating—especially if you’re trying to strike the right balance between comfort, cultural respect, and personal style. I felt the same way before my own trip.
We visited Morocco in the Summer, and I mostly wore maxi dresses and carried light shawls to cover up when needed. But before long, I realized I could have packed a wider range of options. Same for my mom and daughter – in fact, they ended up buying long-sleeve tunics in Jemaa El-Fnaa just to feel better prepared for evenings out. So I definitely have some insight into the right (and wrong) way to pack for a trip to Morocco.
Yes—the Morocco dress code for tourists is more nuanced than you might expect.
In this post, I’m breaking down everything you need to know—from regional style differences to what not to wear in Morocco, how to adapt to conservative expectations without sacrificing comfort, and practical Morocco outfit ideas that worked (or didn’t) for us.
Understanding Morocco’s Dress Code for Tourists
Cultural Expectations and Respect
Morocco is a conservative country, and while it’s used to tourists, dressing modestly is still expected, especially for women. That doesn’t mean you need to cover every inch of skin or blend in with local women, but it does mean being thoughtful. As a female traveler, your goal is to avoid drawing unwanted attention while showing respect for Moroccan customs.
In most cities, local women wear long dresses, kaftans, and loose pants with long sleeves.
Tourists aren’t expected to dress exactly the same, but you’ll feel more comfortable and be treated with more respect if your outfits mirror that same level of modesty. This applies whether you’re in Fes or Marrakech, walking through souks or sitting down at dinner.
Common Misconceptions About Moroccan Attire
One of the biggest mistakes I see from female travelers is assuming Morocco’s popularity as a tourist destination means anything goes. It doesn’t. Crop tops, tank tops, and short shorts might be common elsewhere, but in Morocco they’ll get you stares—and sometimes comments, especially in medinas or rural areas.
Can females wear shorts in Morocco? Technically, yes. But should you? In most places, you’ll feel more comfortable in longer, looser clothing like flowy pants, maxi skirts, or midi dresses. It’s really about trying to avoid unwanted attention.
Save shorter or sleeveless items for the beach or your hotel pool, and even then, bring a cover-up for walking to and from your room.
Think of it this way: how to dress in Morocco, female or not, isn’t about restriction—it’s about being practical and considerate. When in doubt, longer and looser is always better.
Regional and Seasonal Dressing Tips
What to Wear in Marrakech as a Woman
Marrakech is vibrant, busy, and full of tourists—which means you have a little more flexibility. Still, it’s one of the cities where I was most glad to be wearing a maxi dress and have a shawl in my bag. The heat in June was no joke, but I didn’t want to be walking through Jemaa El-Fnaa in a tank top.
I’d say the general rule is to go for lightweight, breathable fabrics paired with sleeves or a shawl you can throw on when needed.
For dinner at a nice riad, we dressed up a bit. My mom and daughter picked up light long-sleeve tunics with embroidery—they blended in beautifully and were much more appropriate than what we had originally packed for a “nicer” night out.
Dressing Appropriately in Fes
Fes felt more traditional than Marrakech. The medina was tighter, busier, and more local in vibe. I covered my arms more consistently here, and usually wore long dresses. If you plan to visit tanneries or do any walking tours, make sure your shoes are sturdy and closed-toe—those old city streets are uneven and dusty.
Coastal Cities: Casablanca and Rabat
Casablanca and Rabat felt more relaxed, especially along the coast. In some places, I did see local women in jeans and even uncovered arms. That said, I still kept it to flowy linen pant and a cotton blouse outside of the hotel. and that worked perfectly—cool enough for the heat but still appropriate.
If you’re heading to the beach, you can wear your usual swimsuit, but bring a cover-up to walk back to your towel or the hotel. Bikinis are fine at resort beaches, but more modest swimwear is appreciated in public areas.
Seasonal Considerations: Summer vs. Winter Attire
In summer (June–August), the heat is intense—especially in cities like Marrakech. Prioritize light, breathable materials like cotton, linen, and rayon. Loose silhouettes and longer hems will keep you cooler than fitted clothes.
In winter (November–February), it can get surprisingly cold—especially at night. You’ll want layers, a warm jacket, and closed-toe shoes. Long-sleeve tunics or sweaters with jeans or heavier pants work great. And while you still won’t need to cover your head, a scarf doubles as warmth and a quick cover-up when needed.
Activity-Based Outfit Suggestions
Exploring Medinas and Markets
Wandering through Morocco’s medinas is one of the best parts of any trip—but it’s also where you’ll get the most stares if you’re not dressed appropriately. Wear long, flowy pants or a midi/maxi skirt paired with a light long-sleeve top or tee. Are you sensing a pattern here?? 😂
Additionally, a crossbody bag is practical and makes you less of a target for pickpockets.
Visiting Religious Sites
If you’re planning to visit a mosque or religious site (where tourists are allowed), you’ll need to cover your arms, legs, and sometimes your hair. Always bring a scarf with you—it takes up no space and shows you came prepared.
For these days, wear pants or a long skirt with a longer tunic-style top and make sure your shoulders are covered.
Think lightweight kaftans or tunics. These pieces are both respectful and comfortable.
Dining Out: Casual and Formal Settings
Morocco has plenty of casual restaurants where tourists are expected. For lunch, I usually wore what I’d wear during the day—a maxi dress or long pants and a breathable top. But for a nicer dinner at a riad or rooftop restaurant, we changed into something a little more polished.
A long, dressy tunic or embellished maxi dress was perfect. My mom and daughter’s embroidered tunics from Jemaa El-Fnaa were hits. Add a pair of comfortable flats and a lightweight shawl, and you’re set for the evening.
Beach and Poolside Attire
Yes, you can wear a swimsuit in Morocco—but be mindful of where you are. At resort beaches or pools, bikinis are fine, though even then I preferred a one-piece with a sarong or cover-up for walking to and from the lounge chairs. At public beaches, modest swimwear or swim leggings are more common and appreciated.
If you’re planning to explore beach towns like Essaouira or spend time at the beaches near Marrakech, be ready for mixed expectations. Tourists will be in western swimwear, but local women often swim fully clothed or don’t swim at all. It’s totally fine to relax seaside—just pack a cover-up you’ll feel good wearing in a conservative area.
Flip-flops are fine for the pool, but bring real sandals or slides for walking around beach towns or along the Casablanca corniche.
Essential Clothing Items for Female Travelers
Recommended Tops and Bottoms
You don’t need to overhaul your wardrobe to visit Morocco—but you will want to think strategically. Loose-fitting tops that cover your shoulders are a must. I brought a few breathable, long-sleeve blouses and was glad I did. Light cardigans or oversized button-downs are great for layering over tanks if you need to make a quick adjustment on the go.
For bottoms, I started off with my favorite go-to black leggings. But even with a oversized top with longer sleeves, I didn’t feel as comfortable as I’d wanted to in all situations.
So after that, I rotated between flowy pants, wide-leg linen trousers, and a couple of midi skirts. These kept me cool while offering full coverage. Jeans are totally fine, but keep in mind they get hot in summer and can be uncomfortable after long travel days.
So after my experience, I’d say avoid leggings unless you’re wearing something that covers your hips. Moroccan women rarely wear form-fitting clothes in public, and even other female travelers will give you side-eyes in tight outfits.
Footwear Choices
Comfort is key. You’ll walk a lot in Morocco—especially in medinas and historical sites. I brought:
- One pair of supportive sneakers
- Flat sandals with arch support
- A pair of slightly dressier flats for evenings
Leave the heels at home unless you’re staying in luxury hotels the whole time. For exploring, even casual dinners, you’ll be much happier in practical shoes.
Accessories: Scarves, Hats, and Bags
A lightweight scarf is non-negotiable. You’ll use it for sun protection, sudden modesty needs, to cover your hair, or just a bit of warmth in cooler interiors. I kept one in my bag every day.
Bring a packable sunhat—the sun is brutal in summer—and some sort of bas that will help you keep your valuables secure – if not a crossbody, then a waist bag or small backpack worn to the front..
What Not to Wear in Morocco
Items to Avoid to Prevent Unwanted Attention
This part can feel a little frustrating, especially if you’re coming from a place where shorts and crop tops are the norm. But in Morocco, what you wear has a direct impact on how you’re treated—especially as a female traveler.
Here’s what I recommend leaving out of your Morocco packing list:
- Short shorts or mini skirts
- Crop tops
- Tank tops worn alone (without a cover-up)
- Tight-fitting clothing, like leggings or bodycon dresses, or even tight workout clothes
- Low-cut or backless tops
Wearing these items won’t get you arrested or banned from restaurants—but they will invite unwanted attention, especially in conservative areas or markets. And they’ll make it harder to interact with locals respectfully.
Understanding Local Sensitivities
The Morocco dress code for tourists isn’t written in stone, but it’s shaped by cultural norms. You don’t have to dress exactly like Morocco women, but you should aim for the same level of coverage. Even if you see influencers in skimpy outfits on Instagram, remember that many of those photos are staged, and they’re not representative of real travel in Morocco.
When thinking about what should you not wear in Morocco, it helps to ask: Would I wear this to a religious site or rural village in a conservative country? If not, skip it. Dressing modestly won’t just help you blend in—it may help you feel more comfortable and get more out of your experience.
Morocco Packing List for Women
Clothing Essentials
Here’s what I packed—and what I wish I had packed—for a comfortable, culturally appropriate trip to Morocco in June. Adjust based on your travel time, but the basics stay the same:
| Essentials | Nice to Have |
|---|---|
| 3–4 maxi or midi dresses (sleeved or sleeveless with shawl) | 1 dressy tunic for dinners |
| 2–3 flowy pants or wide-leg trousers | 1 lightweight sweater or wrap |
| 3–4 loose-fitting tops (shoulder covering) | 1 pair of jeans (for cooler seasons) |
| 1–2 long skirts | Swimsuit + sarong or modest cover-up |
| 1–2 light scarves | Sun hat |
| 1 light cardigan or button-down shirt | Reusable tote bag for shopping |
| Comfortable sneakers | Backup flats or sandals |
| Walking sandals with arch support | Costume jewelry for dressing up |
| Crossbody bag with zipper | Small umbrella or rain jacket (for winter) |
| Sunscreen + lip balm | Travel-size laundry detergent |
| Feminine hygiene products | E-reader or journal |
| Any daily medications |
Toiletries and Personal Items
You can find basics in major cities, but it’s easier to come prepared:
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer and lip balm (it’s dry, even in humid places)
- Feminine hygiene products (bring what you’re used to)
- Travel-size detergent if you plan to do sink laundry
- Any must-have medications—pharmacies are common, but don’t always stock U.S. brands
Travel Tips for Packing Light
- Stick to a neutral color palette so everything mixes and matches, but include some pops of color in the form of scarves and jewelry
- Pack layers—it gets chilly at night, even in summer
- Use packing cubes to stay organized
- Leave space for souvenirs like Moroccan tunics or scarves, which are not just beautiful but useful on the trip
This packing list will help you feel comfortable, respectful, and prepared for a variety of experiences—from the bustling medinas to coastal dinners.
Embracing Moroccan Fashion
Incorporating Local Styles into Your Wardrobe
One of the most fun parts of visiting Morocco was seeing how beautiful and varied Moroccan clothing for women really is. From lightweight kaftans to intricately embroidered djellabas, the local fashion is designed for both comfort and modesty. These aren’t just traditional pieces—they’re practical, breathable, and stylish.
As I mentioned, in Jemaa El-Fnaa, my mom and daughter bought long-sleeve tunics that were perfect for evening dinners. They were lightweight enough for the heat but looked dressed up and respectful. If you’re looking for authentic Morocco outfit ideas, local markets are full of affordable pieces that work well during your trip and make great souvenirs too.
Shopping for Traditional Moroccan Clothing
Whether you’re visiting Marrakech or wandering the souks in Fes, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to pick up Moroccan clothes for women. Here’s what’s worth checking out:
- Kaftans and djellabas (great for lounging or dinners)
- Lightweight scarves with beautiful patterns
- Handmade jewelry and leather goods
These pieces blend right into your Morocco outfits and can elevate even the simplest travel wardrobe. They’re also useful—you’ll end up wearing what you buy while you’re still there.
If you’re not sure what size to get, most tunics and dresses are designed to be loose-fitting. Many stalls will let you try something on over your clothes or help tailor it on the spot.
Final Thoughts and Travel Tips
Balancing Comfort and Cultural Respect
Dressing for Morocco isn’t about giving up your style—it’s about adapting to where you are. I packed outfits that made me feel comfortable, confident, and appropriate. Still, my own packing left something to be desired. When I added in a few local pieces along the way, I not only fit in better, I actually enjoyed getting dressed every day.
Respecting the Morocco dress code doesn’t mean looking drab or hiding your personality. It just means understanding the context you’re stepping into. Whether you’re walking through Casablanca or exploring Fes, how you dress affects how you experience the country.
Adapting to Different Environments Within Morocco
Each city feels a little different. Marrakech is chaotic and full of tourists, but still deeply traditional. Fes is quieter and more conservative. The coastal cities like Casablanca and Rabat feel more modern and relaxed. Pack with that variety in mind, and be ready to adjust depending on where you are and what you’re doing.
Still unsure how to plan your wardrobe across multiple stops? My 5 Day Morocco Itinerary breaks down what we did in each city, which might help you figure out what types of outfits you’ll actually use.
